Foodstuffs' general manager for property development, Lindsay Rowles, said many growth opportunities existed for retail development in New Zealand.

"Consumers are becoming more discerning about where they shop," said Rowles. "Some want more modern facilities and a wider range of products, while others are focussed on cost savings and environmental sustainability. We are well aware of all those factors, and are investing in order to cater for these needs well into the future."